Fast-rope training apparatus

ABSTRACT

A training apparatus for fast-rope training includes a platform-supporting structure having one or more containers and at least one platform configured for use in fast-rope training. At least one attachment is provided for attaching a fast-rope. The platform-supporting structure is supportable by a surface. The at least one attachment is located higher than the platform and spaced laterally from the platform-supporting structure such that the at least one attachment overhangs the surface so a fast rope can hang from the at least one attachment, past the platform and toward the surface.

The present invention relates to a fast-rope training apparatus,particularly a tower for fast-rope training.

Fast-roping is a technique used primarily by military and emergencyservice personal in order to lower personnel at a height (such as in ahovering helicopter) to a lower level (such as the ground). Infast-roping, a rope suitable for fast-roping is hung toward the ground,a user is attached to the rope and a user lowers themselves to theground under gravity and controls their speed, usually with their hands.

As this is a high-risk and high-skilled operation, the user requiressignificant training to ensure they can safely perform fast-roping.Current training facilities are inadequate, expensive and complex. Onesuch training facility comprises a large permanent building, such as ahanger. A fast-rope training apparatus has been constructed inside thebuilding, making use of the structure of the building, such as thebuilding's beams, to support the apparatus. This fast-rope trainingapparatus is made bespoke to fit inside the building and is therefore ofno use for mass-production. Further, it is expensive and time consumingto design and erect.

The present invention addresses these issues, and provides othersignificant advantages as is clear from the following description.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a fast-rope trainingapparatus comprising a platform-supporting structure comprising one ormore containers; at least one platform configured for use in fast-ropetraining; and at least one attachment for attaching a fast-rope, whereinthe platform-supporting structure is supportable by a surface, andwherein the at least one attachment is located higher than the platformand spaced laterally from the platform and/or platform-supportingstructure such that the at least one attachment overhangs the surface,and possibly also the platform, so a fast-rope can hang from the atleast one attachment, past the platform and toward the surface.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a fast-rope trainingapparatus comprising a platform-supporting structure comprising one ormore containers; at least one platform configured for use in fast-ropetraining; wherein the platform-supporting structure is supportable by asurface, and wherein the at least one platform extends outward from theplatform-supporting structure such that the at least one platformoverhangs the surface.

This training apparatus may comprise at least one attachment forattaching a fast rope. The attachment may be located higher than theplatform.

The attachment may be spaced laterally from the platform (and theplatform-supporting structure). In this way, the at least one attachmentmay overhang the surface (but not the platform) so a fast-rope can hang(at least substantially vertically) from the at least one attachment,past the platform and toward the surface.

Alternatively, the attachment may be spaced laterally from theplatform-supporting structure (and preferably vertically above theplatform) such that the at least one attachment overhangs the platform(and the surface) so a fast-rope can hang (at least substantiallyvertically) from the at least one attachment, past/through the platform(e.g. a through a hatch in the platform, see below) and toward thesurface.

The attachment and the platform may preferably be arranged so that therewould be no contact between the rope and the platform as the rope hangs(in its natural state) from the attachment.

Alternatively, the attachment may be spaced laterally from theplatform-supporting structure (and preferably vertically above theplatform) such that the at least one attachment overhangs the platform(and the surface) so a fast-rope can hang at least partially verticallyfrom the at least one attachment to an edge of the platform, past theplatform, and then substantially vertically from the edge of theplatform to the surface.

In this case, for example, the fast rope may contact the platform

The present invention provides a simple and cheap fast-rope trainingapparatus. In the prior art, fast-rope training is performed usingtraining equipment with a complex set up: the training equipment issupported by the structure of a permanent building and so the trainingequipment has to be designed and configured to fit around and besupported by the structure of the permanent building. In contrast, theplatform-supporting structure may provide the sufficient height for thefast-rope training in a simple and cost-effective manner, and removesthe need for the training apparatus to be supported by a permanentbuilding (or any other structure). Further, the nature of the containersallows the training apparatus to be semi-transportable, i.e. when thereis a plurality of the containers, they may be “unstacked” andtransported to another location where they are “restacked” to form theplatform-supporting structure/training apparatus. The training equipmentof the prior art is not transportable at all—in order to transport it,it would require a complete disassembly of the entire trainingequipment.

The platform-supporting structure may consist of one or more containers.The platform-supporting structure may be formed of a plurality ofcontainers arranged in a stack. In this case, the platform-supportingstructure may be a stack. The stack may comprise or consist of a stackof containers.

When a plurality of containers form the stack, the training apparatusmay be a tower for fast-rope training.

When stacked, the containers may be secured to each other. Further, thelower-most structure may be arranged to rest on the surface (e.g. undergravity), or to be secured to the surface.

The platform-supporting structure may be of such a height such that itis useful and suitable for fast-rope training. The platform-supportingstructure may be at least 4 m, preferably at least 6 m, preferably atleast 7 m, preferably less than 15 m, preferably less than 10 m,preferably 4-15 m, preferably 7-10 m high. The training apparatus as awhole may be at least 8 m, preferably at least 10 m, preferably lessthan 15 m, preferably less than 12 m, preferably 8-15 m, preferably10-12 m high.

A platform may be configured for use in fast-rope training if it isprovided with suitable equipment on or in the vicinity of the platform.For instance, to perform fast-roping, suitable attachments (such as barsand/or hooks and/or loops) may be required for attaching a rope, orindeed a suitable rope may be required. Such attachments must be capableof supporting the weight of a user, e.g. capable of supporting verticalloads of at least 50 kg, 100 kg, 150 kg or 200 kg. Further, suitableaccess to the edge of the platform may be required (such as a gate orhatch). Further, the platform may be required to be of a certain heightabove the ground, such as at least 1 m, preferably at least 5 m,preferably at least 8 m, preferably less than 15 m, preferably less than12 m, preferably less than 10 m, preferably 1-15 m, preferably 5-12 m,preferably 8-10 m. Further, a platform may be configured for use infast-rope training if there is a free vertical path between the platformand the surface (e.g. there is nothing in the way of a user thatfast-ropes from the platform to the surface). Further, a platform may beconfigured for us in fast-rope training if the surface of the platformis generally flat/horizontal and provides enough space for at least 1, 2or 3 users to stand and move comfortably in the vicinity of the rope orthe platform edge. Such an area may be at least 2 m², 4 m², 6 m², 8 m²,or 10 m². The platform edge local to the rope may be at least 0.5 m, 1m, 2 m or 3 m long. The platform is preferably generally rectangular inshape.

The surface may be a ground surface, and the surface is preferablyflat/horizontal. The platform-supporting structure may be directlysupportable (e.g. in direct contact with) or indirectly supportable(e.g. with an element, such as a trailer (with wheels), in between theplatform-supporting structure and the ground surface) by the groundsurface.

The at least one attachment may overhang the surface (and possibly theplatform) in such a way that a fast-rope can hang past/through/by theplatform within a user's arm's reach of the edge of the platform, e.g.less than 1 m or 0.5 m from the edge of the platform .

The at least one attachment may overhang the surface (and possibly theplatform) in such a way that a fast-rope can hang from the attachmentmeans such that when it is used by a user there is no (or very little)risk of the user hitting the platform-supporting structure. For example,the attachment means may overhang the surface by at least 0.5 m,preferably 1 m, preferably 1.5 m, preferably 2 m, preferably 2.5 m, withrespect to the nearest lateral side of the platform-supporting structureand/or platform (when viewed from vertically above).

The “overhang” mentioned in this disclosure is overhang when viewed fromvertically above the training apparatus. An overhang should beconsidered to be when one element (such as the attachment) is spacedlaterally outward from a lateral periphery of a second element (such asthe platform-supporting structure) such that it is vertically above athird element (such as the surface or the platform). In this case, inconsistent usage with the term “overhang” as used in this specification,the first element overhangs the third element, with respect to thesecond element. When the attachment overhangs the surface it may or maynot also overhang the platform, e.g. it may overhang the surface onlywhen it is vertically above the surface but not vertically above theplatform, or it may overhang both the surface and the platform when itis vertically above the platform and the surface. Preferably, there isnothing vertically between the platform (or at least the peripherallateral edge of the platform past which the rope may hang) and thesurface to affect the path of the rope, or to affect/prevent the userfrom fast-roping between the platform and the rope.

The training apparatus may comprise at least one rope for use infast-roping. The rope may hang (at least substantially vertically) fromthe attachment. The rope may pass by the platform within a user's arm'sreach (of the edge of the platform). The rope may pass through theplatform within a user's arm's reach (of the edge of the platform, whichmay be an edge of the hatch). In cases where the attachment overhangsthe platform (e.g. the attachment is vertically above the platform) thefast-rope may hang non-vertically from the attachment until it contactsthe platform (such as an edge of the platform or a skid—see below) andthen may hang vertically from the platform toward the surface. In caseswhere the attachment overhangs the platform (e.g. the attachment isvertically above the platform) the fast-rope may hang substantiallyvertically from the attachment through the platform (e.g. via a hatch,see below) and then may hang vertically from the platform toward thesurface.

There may be a plurality of attachments. Any combination of the positionof attachments with respect to the platform mentioned above is possible.A rope for use in fast-roping may be attached to each of theattachments.

The one or more containers may (each) be a transportable structure, suchas a transportable cabin. The transportable structure may be loadableonto a trailer of a lorry for example. The one or more containers may becheap and readily available, and may simplify construction anddeployment of the training apparatus. This is particularly advantageousover the prior art where training equipment is secured to a permanentbuilding in a complex manner. The present solution is therefore muchcheaper, and more transportable. For example, the present trainingapparatus could be quite straightforwardly temporarily erected in atraining ground, e.g. in a military base. The present invention couldsubsequently be easily moved to any appropriate location. Further, thepresent training apparatus could be constructed in a modular form andtransported to a desired location where it is then erected. This modularconstruction would greatly ease erection of the training apparatus.

Thus, the training apparatus may preferably have a modular construction.The modules may be the one or more containers, and may also include thetop training apparatus assembly (see below).

Preferably, the one or more containers are pre-fabricated containers.Just because a container is described as “pre-fabricated”, it does notmean that absolutely no fabrication/modification of the container ispossible. Rather, a pre-fabricated container may be one that has its ownstructural integrity prior to construction of the platform-supportingstructure, such as an ISO container or a portable building (such as aporta-cabin) or any similar pre-fabricated structure. Thus, apre-fabricated container may be one in which the components of thecontainer, such as the walls, roof and floor, are secured to one anothersuch that the container may be considered to be one modular element.Further, a pre-fabricated structure may be one that can besourced/purchase in an off-the-shelf manner, rather than requiringspecific construction steps by the constructor of the trainingapparatus.

Preferably, the one or more containers comprise one or more ISO shippingcontainers. These may be 10′ (3 m), 20′ (6.1 m) or 40′ (12.2 m) ISOshipping containers. These are length measurements. Preferably, the 20′ISO shipping container is used. ISO shipping containers are typicallyaround 8′ (2.4 m) wide and 8-10′ (2.4-3.0 m) high. ISO shippingcontainers provide many advantages. For instance, they are strong enoughfor stacking without significant (or any) structural reinforcement.Further, they are durable. Further, they are cheap and readilyavailable. Further, they are easily transportable. Further, they areeasily modified to include the additional features of the presentinvention (e.g. since they are typically made from metal, and since thismetal is easily worked with). Preferably, the/each container is an ISOcontainer.

Preferably, each container has substantially the same dimensions.Preferably, each container has substantially the same width and lengthdimensions. Preferably, each container has substantially the same heightdimension. This allows the containers to be easily stacked to form theplatform-supporting structure.

Preferably the/each container is cuboid-shaped.

Preferably, the platform-supporting structure has a substantiallyvertical wall below the platform. Preferably all of the walls of theplatform-supporting structure are substantially vertical. It isadvantageous not to have the base of the platform-supporting structurewider than the top as this would mean a long platform is needed in orderto achieve the platform's overhang of the surface. However, it isadvantageous not have the base narrower than the top of theplatform-supporting structure as this would lead to a potentiallyunstable platform-supporting structure. The wall may be formed of therespective walls of the one or more containers.

The training apparatus may be free-standing. Thus, the trainingapparatus may be arranged such that it does not require structuralsupport from any other structure/building. This is advantageous as itallows the training apparatus to be erected in any suitable location.The prior art training equipment discussed above, on the other hand,requires the training equipment to be structurally supported by apermanent building structure. This severely limits the locations inwhich the training equipment can be erected, and severely increases itscomplexity.

The platform-supporting structure may comprise an uppermost portion. Theat least one platform may comprise an uppermost portion-level platformat substantially the same height as the uppermost portion. This locationis desirable as it allows the uppermost portion-level platform to besupported on the platform-supporting structure whilst allowing themaximum possible distance between the platform and the surface, which isbeneficial for fast-rope training. The uppermost portion of theplatform-supporting structure may be the top of the top container (orthe only container), such as the top surface (e.g. the roof) of the topcontainer (or the only container). The uppermost portion-level platformmay extend laterally outward from the uppermost portion of theplatform-supporting structure, such that it overhangs the surface. Saidplatform may be located at an end of the platform-supporting structure(with respect to the length of the one or more containers).

The training apparatus may comprise a plurality of uppermostportion-level platforms. Preferably there are two (only). Each of saidplatforms may be located at opposite respective ends of theplatform-supporting structure (with respect to the length of the one ormore containers). Preferably, these are at substantially the same heightas each other.

The at least one platform may also comprise a platform at a locationabove the uppermost portion of the platform-supporting structure, e.g. aplatform that is held above the uppermost portion of theplatform-supporting structure by a frame. The frame may comprise one ormore substantially vertically oriented bars. The frame may extend fromthe platform-supporting structure. This frame and platform may be or maybe part of the top training apparatus assembly discussed below. It maybe a module (preferably a prefabricated module) that can be installedand removed from the platform-supporting structure.

Additionally/alternatively, at least one of the one or more containersmay comprise a floor. The at least one platform may comprise afloor-level platform at substantially the same height as said floor.Said container may preferably be the top container of theplatform-supporting structure. Said container may be second containerfrom the top. Said container may be any of the containers in theplatform-supporting structure other than the bottom container. Thislocation of platform allows a lower training height to be used, whichcan be advantageous for progressive learning/training. Further, thislocation of platform allows the floor of said container to be used asthe platform, to support the platform and/or to allow access to theplatform. The platform may extend from the floor at substantially thesame height as the floor, such that it overhangs the surface. Saidplatform may be located at an end of the platform-supporting structure(with respect to the length of the one or more containers).

The floor-level platform may be vertically below the uppermost-levelplatform. Preferably the floor-level platform and the uppermost-levelplatform extend laterally outward from the same end of theplatform-supporting structure, and extend in the same direction.

Preferably the uppermost-level platform extends further from theplatform-supporting structure than the floor-level platform. This allowsusers to fast-rope from both platforms at the same time withoutinterfering with each other.

The floor-level platform may have a length equal to the width of theplatform-supporting structure.

The training apparatus may comprise a plurality of floor-levelplatforms. Preferably there are two (only). Each of said platforms maybe located at opposite respective ends of the platform-supportingstructure (with respect to the length of the one or more containers).Preferably, these are at substantially the same height as each other.

The floor-level platform may equally be thought of as a roof-levelplatform, level with the roof of the container immediately below theplatform. In this case, said platform has substantially the same heightas the roof of the container. The container in question may be thesecond container from the top, the third container from the top, or thebottom container, Said container may be any of the containers except thetop container. The platform may extend from the roof at substantiallythe same height as the roof, such that it overhangs the surface. Saidplatform may be located at an end of the platform-supporting structure(with respect to the length of the one or more containers).

The roof-level platform may be vertically below the uppermost-levelplatform (see below). Preferably the roof-level platform and theuppermost-level platform extend laterally outward from the same end ofthe platform-supporting structure, and extend in the same direction.

Preferably the uppermost-level platform extends further from theplatform-supporting structure than the roof-level platform. This allowsusers to fast-rope from both platforms at the same time withoutinterfering with each other.

The training apparatus may comprise a plurality of roof-level platforms.Preferably there are two (only). Each of said platforms may be locatedat opposite respective ends of the platform-supporting structure (withrespect to the length of the one or more containers). Preferably, theseare at substantially the same height as each other.

Whether the platform is thought of as a roof-level platform or afloor-level platform may come down to preference of the given situation.However, it should be understood that these two platforms are at leastsubstantially similar, and may be equivalent in many situations.

The external wall of the platform-supporting structure may comprise adoor for accessing the platform. Preferably, the door may be theexternal wall of one of the one or more containers. The door may be inthe end wall of the container. The door may be adjacent to the platform.The door may be a roller door. The door may be configured such that whenthe door is shut, the external wall of the container/platform-supportingstructure is substantially completely closed. The door may be configuredsuch that when the door is open, the end wall of the container issubstantially completely open. When the door is in a wall of acontainer, the platform is preferably the floor-level platform of thatcontainer (or roof-level platform of the container below).

The platform may be moveable between a deployed position (e.g. ready foruse) and a retracted position (e.g. ready for assembly/disassembly ofthe training apparatus and transportation of the one or morecontainers). The moveable portion may be the portion of the platformthat overhangs the surface. The movement may be a hinging/pivotingmovement. The platform may be attached to one of the one or morecontainers via a hinge. Preferably, the hinge/pivot is orientatedhorizontally and extends parallel to the wall of the container and isarranged such that the platform may pivot downwards to a horizontaldeployed position and upwards to a vertical retracted position (e.g. fora floor-level platform). The hinge may alternatively be arranged suchthat the platform may pivot upwardly to its deployed position anddownwardly to its vertical retracted position (e.g. for a roof-levelplatform). When in the vertical retracted position the platform may besubstantially flush with, or at least substantially parallel to andadjacent to, the outside of the container/platform-supporting structure.The platform may comprise a stay or brace or strut configured tomaintain the platform in the deployed position, e.g. to act againstvertical downward loads on the platform to ensure the platform ismaintained in the deployed (horizontal) position.

Additionally/alternatively, the platform-supporting structure maycomprise an external wall. The at least one platform may comprise anexternal wall platform that is attached to and supported by the externalwall. The external wall of the platform-supporting structure maypreferably be a substantially vertical wall, and may be made fromexternal walls of the one or more containers. The platform may beattached to the external wall and extend horizontally therefrom. Theplatform may also be supported by the surface, preferably via at leastpartially vertical supporting member(s). The platform may preferably beattached to the bottom container. This lower height is preferable as itallows for easier and safer demonstrations and learning. Said platformmay be located on a side wall (as opposed to an end wall, with respectto the length of the one or more containers).

The platform may extend with a horizontal length less than or equal tothe length of the platform-supporting structure/one or more containers.

Between the platform and the ground surface there may extend a wall,preferably a vertical wall, which may be used for climbing.

The training apparatus may comprise a plurality of external wallplatforms. Preferably there are two (only). Each of said platforms maybe located on opposite or the same side wall of the platform-supportingstructure (with respect to the length of the one or more containers).Each may have substantially the same height or different heights.

The at least one platform may comprise at least one hatch. The hatch mayallow a rope to pass through the platform, and may allow the user tofast-rope through the platform. The hatch may be hinged to the remainderof the platform. The hatch may have an area of at least 0.5 m²,preferably at least 1 m². The platform may comprise a plurality ofhatches. When there is more than one platform present, any or all of theplatforms may comprise at least one hatch. The hatch, when opened, mayprovide at least one platform edge.

The upper surface of the platform may comprise at least one attachment,preferably a plurality of attachments. These attachments may preferablysurround the hatch.

The at least one platform may comprise at least one skid. The skid maybe a skid such as that found on a helicopter's undercarriage. Such askid may comprise a generally horizontal bar running parallel with theadjacent edge of the platform. The horizontal bar may be lower than theplatform surface and may be spaced laterally outward from the platformedge. This mimics a helicopter's skid, and so can be used for practicingfast-roping from helicopters. The platform may comprise a plurality ofskids. When more than one platform is present, any or all of theplatforms may comprise at least one skid. The skid may be thought of aspart of the platform, or as attached to the platform. When the ropehangs partially vertically from the attachment to contact the platform,it may contact the (horizontal bar of) the skid.

The at least one platform may comprises at least one jettied deck. Thejettied deck may extend horizontally from the platform, preferably in adirection perpendicular to the side walls of the platform-supportingstructure. The jettied deck may extend from the platform from betweenthe platform-supporting structure and the outer edge of the platform.The jettied deck may comprise an outer edge distant from the platform.The outer edge may extend horizontally in a direction perpendicular tothe end walls of the platform-supporting structure. The outer edge ofthe jettied deck may overhang only the ground surface, i.e. it haslateral clearance from the platform-supporting structure/platform toavoid overhanging any other components of the training apparatus. Thejettied deck may extend laterally from the platform, and perpendicularto the plane of the first side wall of the platform-supportingstructure, by at least 0.4 m, preferably 0.5 m. The jettied deck may berectangular and may have a length of at least 1 m, but less than thewidth of the platform, and may have a width of at least 0.4 m,preferably at least 0.5 m. The upper surface of the jettied deck may beflush/continuous with the upper surface of the platform.

The skid may be attached to the outer edge of the jettied deck.

The at least one attachment may be provided on a frame. The frame may besupported at least partially by the platform.Additionally/alternatively, the frame may be supported by the surface,particularly with regard to the external wall platform. The frame maycomprise at least one at least partially vertical member extending to aheight above the platform, preferably above a user's head height. Theframe may also comprise at least one at least partially horizontalmember extending outward, preferably over the edge of the platform,preferably outward from the upper portion of the at least one at leastpartially vertical member. The frame may comprise at least one strutsupporting the at least one at least partially horizontal memberrelative to the at least one at least partially vertical member. Theattachment may be connected (directly or indirectly) to the outerportion of the at least one at least partially horizontal member.

Preferably, the frame comprises at least two at least partially verticalmembers and at least two respective at least partially horizontalmembers. These may be spaced relative to one another such that a bar mayextend horizontally between the outer portions of the respective atleast partially horizontal members. The bar may be substantiallyparallel to the adjacent edge of the platform. The attachment may bemounted to the bar. The bar may extend substantially the length of theadjacent platform edge. The two at least partially vertical (and therespective two at least partially horizontal) members may be located atopposite ends of the adjacent edge of the platform. By “adjacent edge”it is intend to mean the edge nearest to the attachment, over which theattachment is mounted.

However, it is not necessary to have a frame above the platform. Forinstance, when one platform is above another (e.g. the floor-levelplatform may be vertically below the upper-most level platform), theattachment for the lower platform may be provided on the upper platform.For instance, the attachment may be provided on the underside of theupper platform, or may be provided on the upper side of the upperplatform and a passage for the rope (e.g. the hatch) may allow for therope to hang down through the upper platform and past the lowerplatform.

The attachment may be a hoop, a ring, a swivel, a pulley or any othermeans suitable for hanging a fast-rope. There may be a plurality ofattachments. There may be a plurality of attachments on the bar. Theremay be a plurality of attachments on each platform, and/or on each edgeof the/each platform.

The training apparatus may comprise a gate configured to optionallyblock a user's pathway to the platform or to an edge of the platform.This gate may be part of a balustrade blocking a user's pathway to theplatform or to an edge of the platform. The gate (and balustrade) actsto improve the safety of the users. The platform may comprise aplurality of gates. When there is more than one platform present, any orall of the platforms may comprise at least one gate.

The balustrade described in this disclosure may be a railing, bannister,fence, wall or any suitable barrier.

The training apparatus may comprise an anchor device for securing a userto the training apparatus in order to prevent the user falling from theplatform. The anchor device may be located above the platform. Theanchor device is preferably above head-height of the user. An anchordevice that allows movement of the user around the platform ispreferable. A rail provides such functionality. The user can be securedto the anchor via a carabiner, or any other suitable clip, and a rope,or any other suitable tether. The anchor device may preferably comprisea rail. The rail may extend across or along the platform, preferably ina linear direction, preferably across/along above a central portion ofthe platform (e.g. toward the centre, away from the outer edge(s) of theplatform).

The training apparatus may comprise climbing equipment for accessing theat least one platform.

The climbing equipment may comprise a climbing wall, The climbing wallmay be attached to an external wall, or may be formed on, an externalwall of the platform-supporting structure. Preferably, the climbing wallextends from the bottom of the platform-supporting structure to the topof the platform-supporting structure. Preferably, the climbing wallextends substantially across the horizontal length of theplatform-supporting structure. Preferably, the climbing wall is locatedadjacent/on the side wall of the platform-supporting structure (withrespect to the length of the one or more containers), e.g. not the endwall. The climbing wall is preferably substantially vertical, but may benon-vertical. The climbing wall may be a façade that is attached to theexternal wall of the platform-supporting structure. Alternatively, theclimbing wall may comprise (specifically designed climbing) holdsattached to the external wall of the platform-supporting structure toallow users to climb up the platform-supporting structure.

Additionally/alternatively, the training apparatus may comprise aclimbing wall that extends substantially across the horizontal width ofthe platform-supporting structure. Preferably, the climbing wall islocated adjacent/on the end wall of the platform-supporting structure(with respect to the length of the one or more containers), e.g. not theside wall.

The climbing wall is preferably angled or non-vertical, but may also bevertical. The climbing wall may be a façade that is attached to theexternal wall of the platform-supporting structure. Alternatively, theclimbing wall may comprise (specifically designed climbing) holdsattached to the external wall of the platform-supporting structure toallow users to climb up the platform-supporting structure.

The training apparatus may also comprise an attachment for attachingsafety ropes for the climbing wall, in order to prevent the user fromfalling from the climbing wall. The safety rope(s) may also be provided.

Combining a climbing wall with the training apparatus allows forimproved training, as the mental and physical fitness of the users canbe pushed in between practicing fast-roping. In the prior art, steps orstairs are used to allow the user to reach the platform. This does nothave the same benefits as a climbing wall.

The term climbing wall is intended to cover a wall that includesmodifications, such as purpose-built holds, that are speciallypositioned and configured to allow a user to climb up the wall.

Additionally/alternatively, the climbing equipment may comprise at leastone ladder. The at least one ladder may extend from the surface to thestop of the platform-supporting structure.

The ladder may be external to the platform-supporting structure, and maybe attached to an external wall of the platform-supporting structure(preferably the opposite side wall to the climbing wall). The ladder maypass by the external wall platform to allow access to the external wallplatform (e.g. it may pass with 1 m, preferably 0.5 m, of the externalwall platform). Preferably the ladder is attached to the same externalwall as the external wall platform. Preferably the ladder comprises acage for protecting the user, preferably the cage is only present atheights above the height of the external wall platform so as to allowthe user to step off the ladder onto the external wall platform.

Alternatively, the at least one ladder may be internal to theplatform-supporting structure. The ladder may extend directly from thebottom of the platform-supporting structure through the one or morecontainers to the top of the platform-supporting structure.Alternatively, the ladder may extend from the floor of a lower containerto the floor of a higher container. There may be a plurality of suchladders, providing a path from the bottom to the top of theplatform-supporting structure.

Additionally/alternatively, the climbing equipment may comprise astaircase external to the platform-supporting structure. The staircasemay be a spiral staircase. The platform-supporting structure maycomprise external doors. The doors and the staircase may be arrangedsuch that the staircase provides access to the doors. Each of the one ormore containers that make up wall where the staircase is adjacent to maycomprise a door. Each door may provide access through the wall of agiven container.

Additionally/alternatively, the climbing equipment may comprise steps orstairs. The steps or stairs may be internal to the platform-supportingstructure. There may preferably be a flight of stairs extending from afloor of a lower container to a floor of a higher container, or from afloor of a (or the) container to a roof of the same container. There maybe a plurality of such flights providing a path from the bottom of theplatform-supporting structure to the top of the platform-supportingstructure.

On the inside of the platform-supporting structure, the one or morecontainers may comprise openings in their walls, roofs and/or floors toallow users to move between the one or more containers of theplatform-supporting structure as desired.

The platform-supporting structure may comprise an uppermost portion. Thetraining apparatus may further comprise a top training apparatusassembly. The top training apparatus assembly may be arranged on theuppermost portion of the platform-supporting structure, and may comprisea first portion that at least partially overlaps with theplatform-supporting structure and a second portion that overhangs thesurface thus forming the at least one platform. This platform may be theuppermost-level platform.

When the platform-supporting structure is a stack, and the trainingapparatus is a tower, the top training apparatus assembly may be a toptower assembly.

The top training apparatus assembly may be a pre-fabricated module, ormay be made of a plurality of prefabricated modules. This allows for theconstruction of the training apparatus to be simplified. The toptraining apparatus assembly may be secured to the platform-supportingstructure. The prefabricated module(s) may have a length equal to orgreater than the length of one of said one or more containers and awidth substantially equal to the width of one of said one or morecontainers.

The first portion overlapping with the platform-supporting structure isoverlapping when viewed from vertically above.

Other components of the training apparatus, such as the balustrade(s),the gate(s), the anchor(s), the attachment(s), the skid(s), thehatch(es), etc., can be provide as part of the top training apparatusassembly.

The top training apparatus assembly may comprise a floor portion, afirst portion of which at least partially overlaps with theplatform-supporting structure and a second portion of which overhangsthe surface thus forming the at least one platform.

The top training apparatus assembly may have substantially the samewidth as the platform-supporting structure, but may be longer than theplatform-supporting structure. The top training apparatus assembly maybe arranged on the platform-supporting structure such that there is nooverhang of the platform assembly over the side walls of theplatform-supporting structure. The top training apparatus assembly maybe arranged such that there is an overhang of the top training apparatusassembly over at least one of the end (and preferably both ends) of theplatform-supporting structure.

The training apparatus may comprise a roof. The roof may be a cover orawning. The roof may substantially cover the platform-supportingstructure. The roof may substantially cover the at least one platform.The roof may substantially cover all the platforms, except possibly theexternal wall platform. The roof may be attached to the top trainingapparatus assembly and may substantially cover the top trainingapparatus assembly, preferably the floor portion of the top trainingapparatus assembly. The roof is preferably above head-height in relationto the at least one platform, preferably in relation to theuppermost-level platform, preferably in relation to the floor of the toptraining apparatus assembly.

The training apparatus may comprise a frame. The roof may be supportedby the frame.

The frame of the top training apparatus assembly may incorporatevertical and horizontal members, so as to preferably provide theoverhanging attachment(s) for platforms and to provide support for theroof. The horizontal members may be above head height of a user standingon the top training apparatus assembly.

The one or more containers and the platform-supporting structure may berectangular when viewed from above. The length of the one or morecontainers (e.g. the longest measurement of the rectangle) may define aside wall of the platform-supporting structure. The width of the one ormore containers may define an end wall of the platform-supportingstructure.

The platform may be rectangular when viewed from above.

When the platform is the uppermost level platform, the length of theplatform (as used in this specification) may be in the directionperpendicular to the side walls of the platform-supporting structure.The width of the platform may in the direction perpendicular to the endwalls of the platform-supporting structure. Whilst the length may belonger than the width of the platform, the width may also be longer thanthe length: here “length” and “width” may merely relative terms.

When the platform is the floor-level platform, the length the length ofthe platform (as used in this specification) may be in the directionperpendicular to the side walls of the platform-supporting structure.The width of the platform may in the direction perpendicular to the endwalls of the platform-supporting structure. Whilst the length may belonger than the width of the platform, the width may also be longer thanthe length: here “length” and “width” may merely relative terms.

The jettied deck may be rectangular when viewed from above. The lengthof the jettied deck (as used in this specification) may be perpendicularto the end walls of the platform-supporting structure. The width of thejettied deck may be in the direction perpendicular to the side walls ofthe platform-supporting structure. Whilst the length may be longer thanthe width of the jettied deck, the width may also be longer than thelength: here “length” and “width” may merely relative terms.

The platform-supporting structure may comprise (or consist of) singlecontainers stacked on top of each other, or even just one singlecontainer. However, the platform-supporting structure may also comprisetwo or more containers arranged horizontally relative one another. Thesecontainers may form layers of the platform-supporting structure, withlayers stacked on top of each other. The two or more containers arrangedhorizontally may be adjacent each other, preferably contacting eachother and further preferably fixed to each other. This has the advantageof increasing the width of the platform-supporting structure, and henceincreasing the stability of the platform-supporting structure. Since thearea of the platform-supporting structure (when viewed from above) isincreased, the size of the platform area(s) may also be increased.

The platform-supporting structure may have a length substantially equalto the length of a single container. The platform-supporting structuremay have a width larger than (or equal to) the width of a singlecontainer. The length of the platform-supporting structure may bedefined by the length of the one or more containers. The width of theplatform-supporting structure may be defined by the width of one, two,three or more containers arranged in a layer.

Preferably, each layer comprises (only) two containers.

The containers of each layer may be attached to each other such thatrespective side walls of the containers are adjacent each other (suchthat they face each other) and such that respective end walls are inline with each other. The respective shipping containers of a givenlayer may be arranged horizontally with respect to each other. All thelayers may have a similar way form. The layers may be stacked on top ofeach other such that the side walls and the end walls of the containersform vertical walls of the platform-supporting structure. This may forma platform-supporting structure that has a width substantially equal tothe sum of the widths of the containers used in a given layer, and alength substantially equal to the length of an individual container.

The platform-supporting structure may also be thought of as a plurality(preferably two) columns of containers placed adjacent each other suchthat the side walls of the respective containers are adjacent each otherand such that the end walls are aligned.

The platform-supporting structure is preferably made of (only) threelayers of the shipping containers stacked vertically on top of oneanother. The containers may be stacked such that the floor of thecontainers of an upper layer container rests and may be attached to theroof of the containers of a lower layer. Respective lateral walls of thecontainers in a given column may be in the same general planes. Endwalls of the containers may be in the same general planes. In this way,the containers of a given column may be stacked in an alignedarrangement, such that their peripheral walls and ends are aligned witheach other.

A first layer may be arranged on the ground surface (not shown). Asecond layer may be arranged on the first layer. A third layer may bearranged on the second layer.

The aligned lateral side walls of containers may form respective lateralside walls of the platform-supporting structure. The aligned ends of thecontainers may form respective end walls of the platform-supportingstructure.

The training apparatus with such a platform-supporting structure maycomprise any of the features of the training apparatus discussed herein.However, some of said features may be slightly different or modifiedwhen a larger platform-supporting structure is used.

For instance, floor-level platform and the uppermost-level platform maybe larger, as it is accommodated by the larger platform-supportingstructure. When n containers form a given layer, the platform may be ntimes longer/larger than the platform when the platform-supportingstructure has a width equal to that of a single container.

In another aspect, the invention can provide a climbing trainingapparatus comprising a structure comprising one or more containers; anda climbing wall attached to, or formed on, an external side wall of thestructure.

Preferably, the climbing wall extends from the bottom of the structureto the top of the structure. Preferably, the climbing wall extendssubstantially across the horizontal length of the structure. Preferably,the climbing wall is located adjacent to/on the side wall of thestructure (with respect to the length of the containers), e.g. not theend wall. The climbing wall is preferably substantially vertical. Theclimbing wall may be a façade that is attached to the external wall ofthe structure. Alternatively, the climbing wall may comprise holdsspecially attached to the external wall of the structure to allow usersto climb up the structure.

The climbing training apparatus may also comprise an attachment forattaching safety ropes for the climbing wall, in order to prevent theuser from falling from the climbing wall.

Such a climbing training apparatus is advantageous as it is cheap andeasy to manufacture and transport. This climbing training apparatus maycomprise any of the features discussed above in relation to the otheraspects of this invention. The structure may comprise any of thefeatures discussed herein in relation to the platform-supportingstructure. The structure may (or may not) be a platform-supportingstructure.

The skilled person would immediately appreciate that any differentcombinations of the above-discussed features are possible.

Certain preferred embodiments will now be described by way of exampleonly and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a tower according to an embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 2 shows another perspective view of the tower of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows another perspective view of the tower of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows an end-on view of the tower of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows a side-on view of the tower of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 shows a plan view of the tower of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 shows an end-on view of another tower according to anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 shows a side-on view of the tower of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 shows a plan view of the tower of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of another tower according to anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 shows an end-on view of the tower of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 shows another perspective view of the tower of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 shows a side-on view of another tower according to anotherembodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 14 shows an end-on view of the tower of FIG. 13.

Shown in FIG. 1 is an embodiment of the apparatus 1 for fast-ropetraining. This apparatus is in the form of a tower 1. The tower 1comprises a platform-supporting structure 3. The platform-supportingstructure 3 takes the form of a stack 3 of ISO shipping containers 10,20, 30 and a plurality of platform assemblies 100, 200, 300 configuredfor use in fast-rope training.

The containers 10, 20, 30 are cuboid-shaped. Each ISO shipping container10, 20, 30 is of substantially the same dimensions, having a laterallength of around 20′ (6.1 m), a lateral width of around 8′ (2.4 m) and avertical height of around 8′ (2.4 m).

Each of the containers 10, 20, 30 comprises a first lateral externalside wall 11, 21, 31 extending vertically along the length of thecontainer 10, 20, 30; a second lateral external side wall 12, 22, 32extending vertically along the length of the container 10, 20, 30 andparallel to the first lateral external side wall 11, 21, 31; a first end13, 23, 33 extending vertically between and perpendicular to the firstlateral external side wall 11, 21, 31 and the second lateral externalside wall 12, 22, 32 at an end of the first lateral external side wall11, 21, 31 and the second lateral external side wall 12, 22, 32; asecond end 14, 24, 34 extending vertically between the first lateralexternal side wall 11, 21, 31 and the second lateral external side wall12, 22, 32, perpendicularly to the first lateral external side wall 11,21, 31 and the second lateral external side wall 12, 22, 32 at the otherend of the first lateral external side wall 11, 21, 31 and the secondlateral external side wall 12, 22, 32, and parallel to the first end 13,23, 33; a roof 15, 25, 35 extending horizontally between an uppermostportion of the first lateral side wall 11, 21, 31, the second lateralside wall 12, 22, 32, the first end 13, 23, 33 and the second end 14,24, 34; and a floor 16, 26, 36 extending horizontally between thelowermost portion of the first lateral side wall 11, 21, 31, the secondlateral side wall 12, 22, 32, the first end 13, 23, 33 and the secondend 14, 24, 34 parallel to the roof 15, 25, 35.

The stack 3 is made of three ISO shipping containers 10, 20, 30 stackedvertically on top of one another. The containers are stacked such thatthe floor 26, 36 of an upper container 20, 30 rests and may be attachedto the roof 15, 25 of a lower container 10, 20; and such that the firstlateral walls 11, 21, 31 are all in the same general plane; and suchthat the second lateral walls 12, 22, 32 are all in the same generalplane; and such that the first ends 13, 23, 33 are all in the samegeneral plane; and such that the second ends 14, 24, 34 are all in thesame general plane. In this way, the containers 10, 20, 30 are stackedin an aligned arrangement, such that their peripheral walls and ends arealigned with each other.

A first container 10 is arranged on the ground surface (not shown). Asecond container 20 is arranged on the first container. A thirdcontainer 30 is arranged on the second container.

The aligned first lateral side walls 11, 21, 31 thus generally form afirst lateral side wall 4 of the stack 3. The aligned second lateralside walls 12, 22, 32 thus generally form a second lateral side wall 5of the stack 3. The aligned first ends 13, 23, 33 thus generally form afirst end 6 of the stack. The aligned second ends 14, 24, 34 thusgenerally form a second end 7 of the stack.

The stack 3 rests on a preferably flat and horizontal ground surface(not shown).

The tower 1 comprises a first platform assembly 100. The first platformassembly 100 is an external wall 4 platform assembly. The first platformassembly 100 comprises a first platform 101 that is attached to theexternal side wall 11 of the first container 10. The first platform 101is an external wall platform. The first platform 101 extendshorizontally outward from the external side wall 11. The first platform101 overhangs the ground surface. The first platform 101 is generalrectangular and has horizontal dimensions of around 1-2 m by 1-2 m,preferably around 1 m by 1.5 m. The first platform 101 is between 1-2 mabove the ground surface. The first platform 101 comprises an outer edge102 that is horizontal and runs parallel to the external wall 4. Theouter edge 102 is the laterally outermost edge of the platform 101 whenviewed from above.

At opposite ends of its outer edge 102, the first platform 101 issupported by and attached to two vertical members 103, 104. The firstplatform 101 is directly attached to the two vertical members 103, 104and respective struts may be connected between the first platform 101and the vertical members 103, 104 for additional support. The verticalmembers 103, 104 are 1-2 m, preferably around 1 m, away from theexternal wall 4 of the stack 3. The vertical members 103, 104 extendvertically from the ground surface to a height of around 2-5 m,preferably around 3.5 m, above the ground and preferably at least around2 m above the first platform 101 (e.g. above head height of someone onthe platform 101). The bottoms of each of the vertical members 103, 104contact the ground via ground engaging plates. The tops of each of thevertical members 103, 104 are attached to respective horizontal members105, 106 that extend perpendicular to the external wall 4 of the stackand attach to the first lateral side wall 21 of the second container 20.The tops of each of the vertical members 103, 104 are connected togetherby a horizontal member 107 that extends parallel to the lateral externalside 4 of the stack 3 and parallel to the outer edge 102 of the platform101. The horizontal member 107 has generally the same length as thelength of the outer edge 102 and is substantially directly verticallyabove the outer edge 102.

Extending horizontally and laterally (perpendicular to the side wall 4of the stack 3) outward from the tops of each of the vertical members103, 104 are respective horizontal members 108, 109. These may eachextend less than 1 m, preferably less than 0.5 m, laterally of theplatform edge 102. Laterally outward ends the horizontal members 108,109 are connected to the respective vertical members 103, 104 viarespective off-vertical struts to provide support to the horizontalmembers 108, 109. The horizontal members 108, 109 are connected by ahorizontal beam 110 that extends parallel to the lateral external wall 4of the stack 3. The height of the beam 110 is substantially the same asthe height of the vertical members 103, 104. The height of the beam 110is around 2-5 m, preferably around 3.5 m, above the ground andpreferably at least around 2 m above the first platform 101 (e.g. abovehead height of someone on the platform 101). The beam 110 is located atthe laterally outward peripheral ends of the horizontal members 108,109. The beam 110 is less than 1 m, preferably less than 0.5 m,laterally of the platform edge 102. The beam 110 has generally the samelength as the length of the outer edge 102 of the first platform 101 andis parallel to the outer edge 102.

On the beam 110 is provided a plurality of attachment rings 111 forattaching a fast rope. The attachments 111 are spaced substantiallyequally along the beam, by at least 0.2 m, preferably 0.3 m, preferably0.4 m, preferably 0.5 m.

In the way described above, when ropes are attached to respectiveattachments 111 on the beam 110, they may hang vertically from a heightabove the user's head height and toward the ground surface and may passthe outer edge 102 of the platform 101 within a user's arm's reach.Further, as can be seen from the above description, the attachment 111is supported by a frame 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110.

The tower 1 comprises a second platform assembly 200. The secondplatform assembly 200 is a floor-level platform assembly. The secondplatform assembly comprises a second platform 201. The second platform201 is a floor-level platform. The second platform 201 overhangs theground surface. The second platform 201 is located at an end 6 of thestack 3. The second platform 201 extends across substantially theentirety of the width of the stack 3, i.e. from the first side 4 to thesecond side 5. The second platform 201 is rectangular in shape and hasan outer peripheral edge 202 (when in the deployed position) thatextends across substantially the entirety of the width of the stack 3and is spaced from the first end 6 of the stack 3. The second platform201 has a length approximately equal to the width of the stack 3, e.g.around 8′ (2.4 m). The second platform 201 as a width (i.e. the distancethat the outer edge 202 extends beyond the end 6 of the stack when viewfrom above) of less than 1 m, preferably less than or equal to 0.5 m.Thus, when in the deployed position the peripheral edge 202 ispreferably less than 1 m, preferably less than or equal to 0.5 m, fromthe end 6 of the stack 3. This is preferable so that users using thesecond platform assembly 200 do not interfere with or interrupt usingthe third platform assembly 300 (see below). The upper surface of thesecond platform 201 is flush with the upper surface of the floor 36 ofthe container, when in the deployed position. There is a minimal gap(preferably no gap) between the floor 36 and the platform 201, i.e. theupper surface of the second platform 201 and the floor 36 aresubstantially continuous.

The second platform 201 is attached to a lower portion (e.g. floor 36 orlower portion of first end 33) of the third container 30 via hinges 203.The hinges 203 allow for the second platform 201 to pivot about ahorizontal axis parallel to the length of the second platform 201 andperpendicular to the plane of the side walls 4, 5 of the stack 3. Theaxis of rotation defined by the hinges 203 may be located proximate thecorner of the stack 3 where the first end 33 meets the floor 36 of thecontainer 30.

The second platform 201 may therefore pivot between a vertical retractedposition and a horizontal deployed position. Here vertical andhorizontal refer to the orientation of the upper surface of the secondplatform 201. When in the retracted position, the plane defined by theplatform 201 is parallel to the first end 6 of the stack 3, and theplatform 201 is adjacent to and the upper surface (when in use) of theplatform 201 may contact the first end 6 of the stack 3. The platform201 generally rotates upwards toward the retracted position. When in thedeployed position, the plane defined by the platform 201 is horizontal.The platform 201 generally rotates downwards toward the deployedposition.

The second platform assembly 200 comprises second platform supportstruts 204 that support the second platform 201 relative to the stack 3,when in the deployed position. The support struts 204 may themselves behinged and may also be foldable in a central portion of the supportstruts 204 to allow for the platform 201 to pivot between its retractedand deployed positions. Each support strut 204 is connected betweenrespective ends of the platform 201 and respective locations on thestack 3, preferably to a location higher than the platform 201 when theplatform is in the deployed position. The struts 204 connect to theplatform 201 proximate the outer edge 202.

The platform 201 is attached to the container 30 by brackets 205. Eachbracket 205 is attached to a respective external side wall 31, 32 of thecontainer 30 proximate the end 33 of the container 30. Each bracket 205may comprise respective hinges 203. Each strut 204 may connect torespective brackets 205. Each bracket 205 extends substantiallyvertically, the hinge 203 being toward the bottom of the bracket 205 andthe strut 204 being connected toward the top of the bracket 205.

The first end 33 of the container 30 comprises a door 206 for accessingthe second platform 201 and for closing off the first end 33 when theplatform 201 is retracted or not in use, e.g. for transport. The door206 may be a roller shutter door. The door 206 is configured so thatwhen it is opened substantially the entirety (or at least a majority) ofthe first end 33 of the container 30 is open.

The first end 33 of the container 30 comprises a gate 207 for accessingthe second platform 201 and for preventing access to the second platform201. The gate 207 is hinged to the inside of the external side walls 31,32 of the container 30. The gate 207 is configured so that when it isopened access is provided to the platform 201 across substantially theentirety (or at least a majority) of the width of first end 33.

The second platform assembly 200 comprises attachments 211 for attachinga fast rope to, such as rings, hooks, etc. As can be seen in FIG. 2,these attachments 211 are attached to and supported by an underside ofthe third platform 301 (see below). The third platform 301 overhangsboth the ground surface and the second platform 201. The third platform301 extends outward from the end 6 of the stack 3 beyond the secondplatform 201. This allows the attachments 211 to be attached to theunderside of the third platform 301 at locations such that when ropesare attached to respective attachments 211, they may hang verticallyfrom a height above the user's head height and toward the ground surfaceand may past the outer edge 202 of the platform 201 within a user'sarm's reach. Preferably, the attachments 211 are located within 1 m,preferably less than or equal to 0.5 m, from the outer edge 202 of theplatform 201 (when viewed from above).

The attachments 211 are spaced (substantially equally) in a linearfashion on the underside of the third platform 301. This line isparallel with the outer edge 202 of the second platform 201. Theattachments may be spaced by at least 0.2 m, preferably 0.3 m,preferably 0.4 m, preferably 0.5 m.

As can be seen from the above description, the attachment 211 issupported by a platform 301 above the second platform 201.

Although shown in the first end of 33 of container 30, the secondplatform assembly 200 could be located in the second end 34 of container30, the first end 23 of container 20 or the second end 24 of container20. It could be located in either end of any container that is notresting on the ground surface.

There is another second platform assembly 200′ that is substantiallyidentical to second platform assembly 200 (i.e. comprising all thefeatures discussed above), but it is located at the other end 34 of thecontainer 30. In FIG. 1 this second platform assembly 200′ is shown inthe retracted position.

It should be understood that the second platform assembly/assemblies200, 200′ may additionally/alternatively be located in the secondcontainer 20, or indeed any container that is not resting on the groundsurface. There may be (only) one second platform assembly 200, 200′ perend 6, 7 of the stack 3. There may (only) be a second platform assembly200, 200′ located at the first end 23 of the second container 20 and asecond platform assembly 200, 200′ located at the second end 24 of thesecond container 20. There may (only) be a second platform assembly 200,200′ located at the first end 23 of the second container 20 and a secondplatform assembly 200, 200′ located at the second end 34 of the thirdcontainer 30. There may (only) be a second platform assembly 200, 200′located at the first end 33 of the third container 20 and a secondplatform assembly 200, 200′ located at the second end 24 of the secondcontainer 20. There may (only) be a second platform assembly 200, 200′located at the first end 33 of the third container 20 and a secondplatform assembly 200, 200′ located at the second end 34 of the thirdcontainer 20.

The tower 1 comprises a third platform assembly 300. The third platformassembly 300 is an uppermost-level platform assembly. The third platformassembly 300 comprises a third platform 301. The third platform 301 isan uppermost-level platform.

The third platform 301 is at substantially the same height as theuppermost portion of the stack 3, e.g. the roof 35 of the third/topcontainer 30. The third platform 301 extends laterally outward from thestack

The third platform 301 overhangs the ground surface, and the secondplatform 201. The third platform 301 is located at an end 6 of the stack3. The third platform 301 extends across substantially the entirety ofthe width of the stack 3, i.e. from the first side 4 to the second side5. The third platform 301 is generally rectangular in shape and has anouter peripheral edge 302 that extends across substantially the entiretyof the width of the stack 3 and is spaced from the first end 6 of thestack 3. The third platform 301 has a length (i.e. the dimension of thethird platform 301 in the direction perpendicular to the side walls 4, 5of the stack, which is perpendicular to the length dimension of thecontainers 10, 20, 30) such that the outer edge 302 extends beyond theend 6 of the stack when view from above approximately equal to the widthof the stack 3, e.g. around 8′ (2.4 m), The third platform 301 as awidth (i.e. the distance that the outer edge 302 extends beyond the end6 of the stack when view from above) of less than 3 m, preferably lessthan or approximately equal to 2 m, preferably greater than 1 m,preferably greater than 1.5 m. Thus, in the peripheral edge 302 ispreferably less than 3 m, preferably less than or approximately equal to2 m, preferably greater than 1 m, preferably greater than 1.5 m, fromthe end 6 of the stack 3, The outer peripheral edge 302 of platform 301extends beyond the outer peripheral edge 202 of platform 202, preferablyby at least 1 m, 1.5 m, or 2 m. This is preferable so that users usingthe second platform assembly 200 do not interfere with or interruptusing the third platform assembly 300.

At opposite ends of its outer edge 302, two vertical members 303, 304extend upward from the third platform 301. The vertical members 303, 304extend vertically from the platform 301 to a height of between 2-3 m,preferably at least around 2 m above the platform 301 (e.g. above headheight of someone on the platform 301). The tops of each of the verticalmembers 303, 304 are attached to respective horizontal members 305, 306that extend perpendicular to the end wall 6 of the stack 3 and form partof an overhead framework 406 of the top tower assembly 400. The tops ofeach of the vertical members 303, 304 are connected together by ahorizontal member 307 that extends parallel to the lateral end wall 6 ofthe stack 3 and parallel to the outer edge 302 of the platform 301. Thehorizontal member 307 has generally the same length as the length of theouter edge 302 and is substantially directly vertically above the outeredge 302.

Extending horizontally and laterally (perpendicular to the end wall 6 ofthe stack 3) outward from the tops of each of the vertical members 303,304 are respective horizontal members 308, 309. These may each extendless than 1 m, preferably less than 0.5 m, laterally of the platformedge 302. Laterally outward ends the horizontal members 308, 309 areconnected to the respective vertical members 303, 304 via respectiveoff-vertical struts to provide support to the horizontal members 308,309. The horizontal members 308, 309 are connected by a horizontal beam310 that extends parallel to the end wall 6 of the stack 3. The heightof the beam 310 is substantially the same as the height of the verticalmembers 303, 304. The height of the beam 310 is between 2-3 m,preferably at least around 2 m above the platform 301 (e.g. above headheight of someone on the platform 301). The beam 310 is located at thelaterally outward peripheral ends of the horizontal members 308, 309.The beam 310 is less than 1 m, preferably less than 0.5 m, laterally ofthe platform edge 102. The beam 310 has generally the same length as thelength of the outer edge 302 of the third platform 301 and is parallelto the outer edge 302.

On the beam 310 is provided a plurality of attachment rings 311 forattaching a fast rope. The attachments 311 are spaced substantiallyequally along the beam, by at least 0.2 m, preferably 0.3 m, preferably0.4 m, preferably 0.5 m.

In the way described above, when ropes are attached to respectiveattachments 311 on the beam 310, they may hang vertically from a heightabove the user's head height and toward the ground surface and may passthe outer edge 302 of the platform 301 within a user's arm's reach.Further, as can be seen from the above description, the attachment 311is supported by a frame 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310.

The platform assembly 300 comprises a gate 312 for preventing andallowing access to the platform edge 302. The gate 312 is locatedproximate, preferably immediately next to, the edge 302. The gate 312,when closed, extends parallel to and along the edge 302. The gate 312 is(hingedly) attached to and supported by the vertical members 303, 304located at either end of the outer edge. The gate 312 is configured sothat when it is opened access is provided to the edge 302 acrosssubstantially the entirety (or at least a majority) of the width of theedge 302, and/or to only a (central) portion of the edge 302. This maybe achieved by having a three-fold gate as shown in FIG. 1.

The third platform also comprises a hatch 313. The hatch 313 may beattached to the remainder of the platform 301 via a hinge or hinges. Thehatch 313 is located in toward the centre of the platform 301. The hatch313 allows rope to pass through the platform 301, and allows the user tofast-rope through the platform. The hatch 313 has an area of at least0.5 m², preferably at least 1 m². The hatch 313 is rectangular and hasdimensions of around 0.5 m by 1 m, for example 0.6 m by 0.9 m. The hatch313 overhangs the ground surface but does not overhang the secondplatform 201—it is further laterally from the stack 3 than the outeredge 202 of the second platform 201.

The upper surface of the platform 301 comprises a plurality ofattachments 314. These attachments 314 are recessed in the surface sothey do not protrude above the general plane of the surface of theplatform 301. The attachments 314 may be recessed swivel tie down rings.The attachments 314 are arranged around the hatch 313. There may be atleast 5, 10 or 15 attachments 314.

The third platform assembly 300 further comprises a first jettied deck315. The first jettied deck 315 extends horizontally from the platform301 in a direction perpendicular to the side walls 4, 5 of the stack 3and parallel to the outer edge 302. The jettied deck 315 extends fromthe platform 301 from between the stack 3 and the outer edge 302 of theplatform. The first jettied deck 315 comprises an outer edge 316 distantfrom the platform 301. The outer edge 316 extends horizontally in adirection perpendicular to the end walls 6, 7 of the stack 3. In thisway, the outer edge 316 of the jettied deck 315 overhangs only theground surface, i.e. it has lateral clearance to avoid overhanging thesecond platform 201. The jettied deck 315 extends laterally from theplatform 301, and perpendicular to the plane of the first side wall 4 ofthe stack 3, by at least 0.4 m, preferably 0.5 m. The jettied deck 315is rectangular and may have a length of at least 1 m, but less than thewidth of the platform 301, and may have a width of at least 0.4 m,preferably at least 0.5 m. The midpoint of the length of the jettieddeck 315 may be approximately aligned with the midpoint of the width ofthe platform 301. The midpoint of the length of the jettied deck 315 isaround 1 m from the general plane of the first end 6 of the stack 3. Theupper surface of the jettied deck 315 is flush/continuous with the uppersurface of the platform 301.

Attached to the outer edge 316 of the jettied deck 315 is a skid 317.The skid 317 comprises a horizontal bar 318 running parallel with theadjacent edge 316 of the jettied deck 315. The horizontal bar 318 isconnected to the outer edge 316 by two parallel connecting members 319.The connecting members 319 connect between the bar 318 and the outeredge 316, preferably opposite ends of the outer edge 316. The connectingmembers 319 are angled downward (at around 30-60° from the vertical)from the outer edge 316 such that the horizontal bar 318 is spacedlaterally outward of the edge 316 and vertically downward from the edge316. Preferably the bar 318 extends parallel to the edge 316 along theentire length of the edge 316, and is longer than the edge 316. Thehorizontal bar 318 may be around 1-2 m long and maybe spaced 0.1-0.5 mlaterally from the edge and may be spaced 0.3-1 m vertically from theupper surface of the jettied deck 315. In this way, the horizontal bar318 is positioned so a user can step down from the jettied deck 315 tothe bar 318 safely and in a manner that mimics a helicopter's skid.

Beyond opposite ends of the outer edge 316 two vertical members 303, 320extend upward from the third platform 301. One vertical member 303extends from laterally outward of the jettied deck 315 and one verticalmember 320 extends from laterally inward of the jettied deck 315, withrespect to the general plane of the first end 6 of the stack 3. Thevertical members 303, 320 extend vertically from the platform 301 to aheight of between 2-3 m, preferably at least around 2 m above theplatform 301 (e.g. above head height of someone on the platform 301).The tops of each of the vertical members 303, 320 are attached torespective horizontal members 307, 321 that extend parallel to the endwall 6 of the stack 3 and form part of an overhead framework 406 of thetop tower assembly 400.

The tops of each of the vertical members 303, 320 are connected togetherby a horizontal member 305 that extends perpendicular to the lateral endwall 6 of the stack 3 and parallel to the outer edge 316 of the jettieddeck 315. The horizontal member 305 has generally the same length as thewidth of the platform 301 (i.e. the distance the platform 301 overhangsthe surface).

Extending horizontally and laterally (parallel to the end wall 6 of thestack 3) outward from the tops of each of the vertical members 303, 304are respective horizontal members 322, 323. These may each extend lessthan 1 m, preferably less than 0.5 m, laterally of the platform 301.Preferably these extend the same distance from the platform as thejettied deck 315 does. Laterally outward ends the horizontal members322, 323 are connected to the respective vertical members 103, 320 viarespective off-vertical struts to provide support to the horizontalmembers 322, 323. The horizontal members 322, 323 are connected by ahorizontal beam 324 that extends perpendicular to the end wall 6 of thestack 3. The height of the beam 324 is substantially the same as theheight of the vertical members 303, 320. The height of the beam 324 isbetween 2-3 m, preferably at least around 2 m above the platform 301(e.g. above head height of someone on the platform 301). The beam 324 islocated at the laterally outward peripheral ends of the horizontalmembers 322, 323. The beam 324 is directly vertically above the edge 316of the jettied deck 315, so that the horizontal bar 318 of the skid 317extends laterally beyond the beam 324. The beam 310 has generally thesame length as the width of the third platform 301 and is parallel tothe outer edge 316.

On the beam 324 is provided a plurality of attachment rings 325 forattaching a fast rope. The attachments 325 are spaced substantiallyequally along the beam, by at least 0.2 m, preferably 0.3 m, preferably0.4 m, preferably 0.5 m.

In the way described above, when ropes are attached to respectiveattachments 325 on the beam 324, they may hang from a height above theuser's head height in an off-vertical manner to the horizontal bar 318.The ropes contact the bar 318 and then hang vertically downward towardthe surface. This may mimic the situation in a helicopter.Alternatively, the beam 324 could be laterally spaced beyond the skid317 so that a rope could hang vertically from the beam 324 past the skid317 and on toward the ground.

As can be seen from the above description, the attachment 325 issupported by a frame 303, 320, 321, 306, 322, 323, 324.

The platform assembly 300 comprises a (second) gate 326 for preventingand allowing access to the jettied deck 315. The gate 326 is locatedproximate, preferably immediately next to, the jettied deck 315. Thegate 326, when closed, extends parallel to the edge 316. The gate 326 isattached to and supported by the vertical members 303, 320 via fixedbalustrade portions. The gate 326 is hinged to said balustrade. The gate326 is configured so that when it is opened access is provided to thejettied deck 315 across substantially the entirety (or at least amajority) of the length of the jettied deck 315.

The jettied deck 315, skid 317 and/or frame discussed above may belocated on the side of the platform 301 nearest the first external sidewall 4 of the stack 3 (the first side of the platform 301), and/or maybe located on the side of the platform 301 nearest the second externalside wall 5 of the stack 3 (the second side of the platform 301). Twosuch jettied decks 315, skids 317 and frames etc. (as described above)may be provided by the platform assembly 300.

The platform assembly 300 may comprise two rails 327 running across thewidth of the platform 301. The rails 327 are at least 1.5 m, 1.75 m, 2 mabove the platform 301, such that they are above head height of a userstanding on the platform 301. The rails 327 are parallel with each otherand are perpendicular to the general plane of the end 6 of the stack 3.The rails 327 are horizontal. The rails 327 are attached to horizontalmembers 307, 321 and run perpendicular to horizontal members 307, 321.

The rails 327 are configured such that a user can anchor themselves toone or both of the rails, as a safety means. The point at which the useris anchored to the rails 327 may move/slide along the rail 327. Tworails 327 are preferable as it allows multiple users to use the multipleedges 302, 316 for fast-roping simultaneously.

The tower 1 may comprise another third platform assembly 300′ comprisingsome or all of the features discussed above in relation to the thirdplatform assembly 300. This third platform assembly 300′ may be at theopposite end 7 of the stack compared to the end 6 at which the thirdplatform assembly 300 is.

The tower 1 further comprises a top training apparatus assembly 400. Thetop training apparatus assembly 400 is a top tower assembly 400. The toptower assembly 400 is arranged on the uppermost portion of the stack 3,i.e. the roof 35 of the third container 30. The top tower assembly 400comprises a first portion 401 that overlaps with the stack 3, a secondportion 402 that overhangs the surface thus forming the third platformassembly/assemblies 300, 300′.

The top tower assembly 400 comprises a floor portion 404, a firstportion of which at least partially overlaps with the stack 3 and asecond portion of which overhangs the surface thus forming the at leastone platform 301. The floor portion 404 has a width substantiallyidentical to the width of the stack 3, e.g. around 8′ (2.4 m). Thelength of the floor portion 404 is longer than the length of the stack3, thus allowing the second portion 402 to overhang the ground surface.The second portion of the floor portion 404 is the platform(s) 301 (andthe jettied deck(s) 315). Thus the upper surface of the platform(s) 301are flush and continuous with the floor of the remainder of the floorportion 404.

The top tower assembly 400 comprises a balustrade 405 around itsperiphery.

The top tower assembly 400 comprises a frame 406. The frame 406 isconstructed of vertical members 407 extending from the periphery of thefloor portion 404 at evenly spaced intervals. The vertical members 407are connected together by horizontal members 408, some of which extendacross the width of the stack 3 and some of which extend in a directionparallel to the length of the stack 3. The vertical members 407 and thehorizontal members 408 are arranged such that the horizontal members areat least 1.5, 1.75 or 2 m above the floor portion 404. This allows thehorizontal parts of the frame 406 to be above head height.

The third platform assembly/assemblies 300, 300′ is/are an integral partof the top tower assembly 400. The third platform(s) 301, and thejettied deck(s) 315, are integral parts of the floor portion 404 of thetop tower assembly 400. The vertical members 407 comprise verticalmembers 303, 304 320. Horizontal members 408 comprise horizontal members305, 306, 307, 321. Further, the rails 327 are part of the top towerassembly 400, and extend along substantially the entire length of thetop tower assembly 400 (e.g. from one platform assembly 300 to the other300′).

As an aside, as shown in the Figures, the horizontal members 408, 305,306, 307, 321 may have a construction comprising two (vertically) spacedhorizontal beams connected by angled truss members. This provides astrong horizontal member. This collection of beams and trusses arereferred to as a “horizontal member” as they rigidly joined andgenerally extend horizontally.

The top tower assembly 400 is a pre-fabricated module, which is placedon top of and attached to the stack 3 of containers 10, 20, 30.

The tower 1 comprises a roof 409. The roof 409 is a cover. The roof 409substantially covers the remainder of the tower 1. The roof 409 extendssubstantially across the length and width of the tower 1 (e.g. thelength and width of the top tower assembly 400). The roof 409 isconnected to the upper side of the frame 406 of the top tower assembly400. (Each of) the horizontal beams 408 extending across the width oftop tower assembly may be attached to a respective vertical member 410extending vertically upward from the midpoint of the horizontal beams408. The roof 409 is supported along the centre-line of the width of thetop tower assembly 400 by the top of these vertical members 410. Theroof 409 slopes downward toward the periphery of the frame 408.Preferably, each of the vertical members 407 may have a respectivehorizontal member 411 attached thereto and extending outwardly in adirection perpendicular to the general plane of the side walls 4, 5 ofthe stack 3 so as to overhang the ground surface. These horizontalmembers 407 include horizontal members 322, 323. The roof 409 isattached to the outer periphery of the horizontal members 407, toincrease coverage of the tower 1. The roof 409 is made from a flexiblewaterproof material such as waterproof cloth or plastic sheeting.

The tower 1 comprises a ladder 500 extending vertically from near theground surface to the top tower assembly 400, for providing access tothe top tower assembly 400. The ladder 500 is positioned on the firstside wall 4 of the stack 3, and is positioned close enough to the firstplatform assembly 100 to allow a user to access the first platform 101using the ladder 500. The ladder comprises a cage 501 for protecting theuser climbing the ladder 500. The cage 501 may be attached to the ladder500 and may extend from the top of the ladder 500 to a location higherthan the first platform 101. The ladder 500 provides a path for the userto reach the first platform 101 and the third platform(s) 301.

The top of the ladder 500 may be adjacent to a portion of the top towerassembly 400 where the balustrade 405 is interrupted. There is a gate502 here to prevent and allow access to the top of the ladder 500. Thegate 502 can extend across the interruption of the balustrade 405. Thegate 502 is hinged to the balustrade 405.

The tower 1 comprises a climbing wall 503. The climbing wall 503 is afaçade that is attached to the second side wall 5 of the stack 3. Theclimbing wall 503 extends from the ground surface to the top of thestack 3. The climbing wall 503 extends along substantially the entiretyof the length of the stack 3, i.e. from one end 6, 7 to the other 7, 6of the stack 3. The climbing wall 503 comprises a plurality of hand/footholds 504. The climbing wall 503 provides a path for the user to reachthe second platform(s) 201 and the third platform(s) 301. The climbingwall 503 is constructed from a plurality of panels 505. The panels 505are pre-fabricated and are arranged to form a complete climbing wall 503when attached to the stack 3 and/or each other.

The tower 1 comprises an internal climbing path. The lowermost container10 comprises a door 506 that provides and prevents access into the stack3. The door 506 is a door as readily found on ISO containers. Insideeach of the containers 10, 20, 30 is stair case (or set of steps) 507connecting, and allowing access between: the floor 16 of the firstcontainer 10 and the floor 26 of the second container 20 (through theroof 15 of the first container 10); the floor 26 of the second container20 and the floor 36 of the third container 30 (through the roof 25 ofthe second container 20); and the floor 36 of the third container 30 andthe floor 404 of the top tower assembly 400 (through the roof 35 of thethird container). There is a set of steps 507 associated with eachcontainer 10, 20, 30.

FIGS. 1 to 6 show different views of this same embodiment. FIGS. 7-8show a very similar embodiment, identical in every way except that thetower does not have the roof 400 or horizontal members 411 or verticalmembers 410, or the climbing wall 503.

FIGS. 10 to 12 show another embodiment of a tower 1001 according to thepresent invention. Except where discussed below, the tower 1001 isidentical or at least largely similar to the tower 1.

Thus, the tower 1001 comprises a stack 1003 of ISO shipping containers1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060 and a plurality of platformassemblies 1100, 1200, 1300 configured for use in fast-rope training.

However, whereas the stack 3 of tower 1 was made by stacking singlecontainers 10, 20, 30 one on top of the other, the tower 1001 is made oflayers of containers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060. Each layercomprises two containers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060. Theshipping containers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060 of each layer areattached to each other such that respective side walls of the containersare adjacent each other (such that they face each other) and such thatrespective end walls 1013, 1023, 1033, 1043, 1053, 1063 are in line witheach other. The respective shipping containers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040,1050, 1060 of a given layer are arranged horizontally with respect toeach other. All the layers are made in a similar way, and are stacked ontop of each other such that the side walls and the end walls of thecontainers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060 form a vertical wall ofthe stack 1003. This forms a stack 1003 that has a width substantiallyequal to twice the width of an individual container, and a lengthsubstantially equal to the length of an individual container.

The stack 1003 may equally be thought of as two columns of containers1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060 placed adjacent each other such thatthe side walls of the respective containers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040,1050, 1060 are adjacent each other and such that the end walls arealigned.

The stack 3 is made of three layers of the shipping containers 1010,1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060 stacked vertically on top of one another.The containers are stacked such that the floor of the containers 1020,1030, 1050, 1060 of an upper layer container rests and may be attachedto the roof of the lower containers 1010, 1020, 1040, 1050; and suchthat lateral walls of the containers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060in a given column are in the same general planes; and the end walls ofthe containers are in the same general planes. In this way, thecontainers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060 of a given column arestacked in an aligned arrangement, such that their peripheral walls andends are aligned with each other.

A first layer is arranged on the ground surface (not shown). A secondlayer is arranged on the first layer. A third layer is arranged on thesecond layer. The aligned lateral side walls of containers 1010, 1020,1030 thus generally form a first lateral side wall 1004 of the stack1003. The aligned lateral side walls of containers 1040, 1050, 1060 thusgenerally form a second lateral side wall 1005 of the stack 1003. Thealigned ends of the containers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060 thusgenerally form a first end 1006 and a second end 1007 of the stack 1003.The aligned second ends 14, 24, 34 thus generally form a second end 7 ofthe stack.

The tower 1 comprises a first platform assembly 1100. The first platformassembly 1100 is an external wall 1005 platform assembly. The firstplatform assembly 1100 comprises a first platform 1101 that is attachedto an external side wall of container 1040. The first platform 1101 isan external wall platform. The first platform 1101 extends horizontallyoutward from the external side wall of the stack 1003. The firstplatform 1101 overhangs the ground surface. The first platform 1101 isgeneral rectangular and has horizontal width (i.e. the distance itextends from the stack 1003) of around 1-3 m (preferably 2-2.5 m), and ahorizontal length (i.e. the distance it runs parallel to the length ofthe stack/containers) substantially equal to the stack/containers. Thefirst platform 1101 is between 1-3 m above the ground surface. The firstplatform 1101 comprises an outer edge 1102 that is horizontal and runsparallel to the external wall of the stack. The outer edge 1102 is thelaterally outermost edge of the platform 1101 when viewed from above.

At the outermost edge 1102, the platform 1101 is supported by aplurality of vertical members 1103 that extend to the ground surface andcontact the ground via ground engaging plates. The tops of each of thevertical members 103, 104 are attached to respective horizontal members1105 the external wall 1005 of the stack 1003 and attach to the lateralside wall of the container 1040.

Between the outermost edge 1102 and the ground, there extends a verticalwall 1108. This may be used as a climbing or abseiling wall. This wall1108 is supported by the vertical members 1103.

The tower 1001 comprises a second platform assembly 1200. This issubstantially identical to the second platform assembly 200 except thatthere are essentially two platform assemblies 200 next to each other,one in the end wall 1033 of a first upper container 1030 and one in theend wall of a second upper container 1060 adjacent to the first uppercontainer (both said containers being in the same layer). The twoplatforms 201 next to each other effectively form one larger platform.

There may be another second platform assembly, which is substantiallyidentical to second platform assembly 1200, located at the other end ofthe container stack 1003. However, in the embodiment of FIGS. 10-12, atthe other end of the stack 1003, there is instead a climbing wall 1600.The climbing wall 1600 is non-vertical and extends from the groundsurface to the floor of the upper layer (the floor of upper containers1030, 1060). The wall 1600 has a width such that it extends across thewidth of the stack 1003. The ends of the containers 1030, 1060 proximatethe wall 1600 each comprise respective doors 1206 for accessing the wall1600 (substantially identical to door 206) and gates 1207 for accessingthe wall 1600 (substantially identical to the gate 1207). The tower 1001may comprise ropes for climbing up or abseiling down the wall 1600.

It should be understood that the second platform assembly/assemblies1200 and/or the wall 1600 may additionally/alternatively be located inthe second layer containers 1020, 1050, or indeed any container that isnot resting on the ground surface.

The tower 1001 comprises a third platform assembly 1300. The thirdplatform assembly 1300 is substantially identical to the third platformassembly 300 except that it extends across the width of two containersin the stack 1003 (i.e. it is wider). Further, it may comprise twohatches 1313, and may comprise an additional gate 1312. The outerperipheral edge 1302 of the third platform assembly 1300 isapproximately twice the width of edge 302, i.e. it extends substantiallyacross the width of the stack 1003. As is explained below in moredetail, the third platform assembly 1300 is formed of two symmetricalportions that are fixed to each other. The horizontal beam 1324 issupported by angled (between horizontal and vertical) members 1470 thatare in turn supported by vertical members 1407, 1412 as discussed below.

The tower 1001 further comprises a top tower assembly 1400. The toptower assembly 1400 is substantially identical to the top tower assembly400 except that it extends across the width of two containers in thestack 1003 (i.e. it is wider). Further, the top tower assembly 1400forms only one third platform assembly 1300, instead of two thirdplatform assemblies 300, 300′. Further, the top tower assembly 1400 isconstructed of two portions 1450, 1460, which are substantiallysymmetrical. The two portions have a width substantially equal to thewidth of a container 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060, and lengthgreater than the length of a container 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050,1060. The two portions 1450, 1460 are attached to one another alongtheir length to form the top tower assembly 1400.

The first portion 1401 overlaps with the stack 1003 and the secondportion 1402 overhangs the ground surface thus forming the thirdplatform assembly 1300. There may be no overhang of the floor portion1404 over the wall 1600, as there may not be a third platform assemblyabove the wall 1600.

The frame 1406 is constructed of vertical members 1407 extending fromthe periphery of the floor portion 1404 and vertical members 1412 at thecentre line of the floor portion 1404 (i.e. at the location where thetwo portions 1450 and 1460 meet, e.g. directly above where side walls ofthe containers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060 meet). The verticalmembers 1412 are longer than the vertical members 1407. Connecting thetops the vertical members 1412 to respective vertical members 1407 areangled members 1470. The angled members 1470 extend at an angle betweenthe vertical and the horizontal and in a direction parallel to the widthof the stack 1003. The angled members 1470 extend beyond the side walls1004, 1005 of the stack 1003.

The two portions 1450, 1460 are pre-fabricated modules, which areattached together and placed on top of and attached to the stack 1003.

The roof 1409 is supported by the angled members 1470. The roof 1409 ismade of a rigid material, such as corrugated plastic or metal. The roof1409 extends beyond the side walls 1004, 1005 of the stack 1003, coversthe third platform assembly 1300 and overhangs the wall 1600.

On the inside of the stack 1003, the containers 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040,1050, 1060 may comprise openings in their walls/roofs/floors to allowusers to move between the containers of the stack 1003 as desired.

FIGS. 13 to 14 show another embodiment of a tower 2001 according to thepresent invention. Except where discussed below, the tower 2001 isidentical or at least largely similar to the tower 1001.

The tower 2001 comprises two third platform assemblies 1300 and twosecond platform assemblies 1200, one of each being located on each ofthe ends 1006, 1007 of the stack 1003. There is no wall 1600 or firstplatform assembly 1100. However, the tower 2001 comprises a staircase2500 extending from the ground surface to the top tower assembly 1400,for providing access to the top tower assembly 1400. The staircase 2500is a spiral staircase. The stack 1003 comprises doors 2501 in the sidewall 1004 of the stack 1003. The doors 2501 and the staircase 2500 arearranged such that the staircase 2500 provides access to the doors 2501.Each of the containers 1010, 1020, 1030 that make up the side wall 1004comprises a door 2501. Each door 2501 provides access through the sidewall of a given container 1010, 1020, 1030.

The skilled person would immediately appreciate that differentcombinations of the above-discussed features are possible withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention. Whilst there may beparticularly preferable combinations of features, any combination ofladders, stairs, climbing walls, ropes, platforms, containers, top towerassemblies may be used.

1. A fast-rope training apparatus comprising: a platform-supportingstructure comprising one or more containers; at least one platformconfigured for use in fast-rope training; and at least one attachmentfor attaching a fast-rope, wherein the platform-supporting structure issupportable by a surface, and wherein the at least one attachment islocated higher than the at least one platform and spaced laterally fromthe platform-supporting structure such that the at least one attachmentoverhangs the surface so a fast-rope can hang from the at least oneattachment, past the at least one platform and toward the surface.
 2. Afast-rope training apparatus comprising: a platform-supporting structurecomprising one or more containers; at least one platform configured foruse in fast-rope training, wherein the platform-supporting structure issupportable by a surface, and wherein the at least one platform extendsoutward from the platform-supporting structure such that the at leastone platform overhangs the surface.
 3. A training apparatus as claimedin claim 2, comprising at least one attachment for attaching a fastrope, wherein the attachment is located higher than the at least oneplatform and is spaced laterally from the platform-supporting structuresuch that the at least one attachment overhangs the surface so afast-rope can hang from the at least one attachment, past the at leastone platform and toward the surface.
 4. A training apparatus as claimedin claim 1, wherein the platform-supporting structure comprises aplurality of containers.
 5. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1,wherein the one or more containers is/are pre-fabricated container(s).6. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the trainingapparatus is free-standing.
 7. A training apparatus as claimed in claim1, wherein the platform-supporting structure comprises an uppermostportion, and the at least one platform comprises an uppermostportion-level platform at substantially the same height as the uppermostportion.
 8. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein at leastone of the one or more containers comprises a floor, and the at leastone platform comprises a floor-level platform at substantially the sameheight as said floor.
 9. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1,wherein the platform-supporting structure comprises an external wall,and the at least one platform comprises an external wall platform thatis attached to and supported by the external wall.
 10. A trainingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one platformcomprises at least one hatch.
 11. A training apparatus as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the at least one platform comprises at least one skid.12. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising agate configured to optionally block a user's pathway to the at least oneplatform or to an edge of the at least one platform.
 13. A trainingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an anchor device forsecuring a user to the training apparatus in order to prevent the userfalling from the at least one platform.
 14. A training apparatus asclaimed in claim 13, wherein the anchor device is located above the atleast one platform.
 15. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1,further comprising climbing equipment for accessing the at least oneplatform.
 16. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein theclimbing equipment comprises a climbing wall.
 17. A training apparatusas claimed in claim 1, wherein the platform-supporting structurecomprises an uppermost portion and the training apparatus furthercomprises a top training apparatus assembly arranged on the uppermostportion of the platform-supporting structure and comprising a firstportion that at least partially overlaps with the platform-supportingstructure and a second portion that overhangs the surface thus formingthe at least one platform.
 18. A training apparatus as claimed in claim1, wherein the platform-supporting structure has a width substantiallyequal to the width of a single one of said one or more containers.
 19. Atraining apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein theplatform-supporting structure has a width greater than the width of asingle one of said one or more containers.
 20. A training apparatus asclaimed in claim 5 wherein the one or more containers are ISO shippingcontainers.